COLLEGE PARK, Md. -
Freshman Katie Schwarzmann has stepped onto the college lacrosse scene with such ease it would make a fifth-year senior envious. The rookie from Sykesville, Md., is third in scoring, behind only returning All-Americans Karri Ellen Johnson and Caitlyn McFadden, and has managed to land a spot in the starting lineup despite the Terps returning every single starter from a squad that went an amazing 21-1 in 2009.

Schwarzmann took the time to chat with umterps.com about her speedy adjustment to the college game, among other things, earlier this week.

Schwarzmann Q & A:

Umterps.com: What has been the biggest adjustment you have had to make to your game to adapt to the collegiate game?

Schwarzmann: The biggest adjustment from high school to college has been the speed of the game. There are hardly any rests on either side of the ball. Not only is the game faster, but you have to think one step ahead and anticipate the next play in order to keep up with the game.

Umterps.com: You are off to a fast 10-0 start. What do you attribute that to?

Schwarzmann: All of the work our team put in during the offseason and preseason. We returned every starter from last season and their attitudes and work ethic carry over to the rest of the team. As a team, we have a common goal in mind and we know that in order to get there we have to take care of each game.

Umterps.com: How has head coach Cathy Reese helped you improve your game so far?

Schwarzmann: I am a more confident player thanks to Cathy. She was one of the best attackers to come out of Maryland and her knowledge has helped fine tune my skills.

Umterps.com: Being a freshman on a fairly veteran team, has it ever been intimidating?

Schwarzmann: Never. My teammates are very supportive and the amount of leadership we have is unbelievable. I have learned a lot from the veterans and each member of our team. There are no dividing lines and I can honestly say that as a freshman I couldn't ask for a better situation.

Umterps.com: You were a highly-recruited player out of high school. What made you decide you wanted to go to the University of Maryland?

Schwarzmann: I have always been a huge Maryland fan. I grew up watching Maryland sports and my family has always supported them. The coaching staff, team, academic reputation, and Terrapin pride at Maryland is a perfect fit for me.

Umterps.com: You were tabbed to the All-Decade team in three different sports while in high school. If you had to pick one to play at Maryland (other than lax), what would it be and why?

Schwarzmann: I'd probably have to say basketball. The atmosphere of the Comcast Center is awesome and I would love to play there. I played basketball starting very young and throughout high school. It is definitely one of my favorite sports.